Work

High-Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation Successful in Controlling Refractory Asthma

Year: 2013

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: High-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) has been traditionally implemented for airway secretion clearance in conditions such as cystic fibrosis (CF) and bronchiectasis. There have been few reports of its use in refractory asthma. CASE REPORT: A 36-year-old, non-smoker male presented with a lifelong history of poorly controlled asthma. Despite multiple controller medications, he reported daily chest congestion, copious phlegm, and frequent exacerbations. Imaging, blood work, and bronchoscopy ruled out atypical infections, immunodeficiency, CF, and other chronic conditions. Pulmonary function tests supported a diagnosis of asthma. RESULTS: We initiated HFCWO therapy twice daily in addition to standard inhaled pharmacological therapy. After 2 months, the patient noted resolution of respiratory symptoms as well as improvement in lung function. He remained symptom-free at his 2-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: High-frequency chest oscillation may be useful in phenotypes of asthma characterized by prominent mucus hypersecretion.

Source: Journal of Asthma

DOI: 10.3109/02770903.2012.757773

Authors: Sonali Bose, Jonathan Jun, Gregory B. Diette

Institution: Johns Hopkins University

Language: English

Topic: Asthma and respiratory diseases

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: American Thoracic Society, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences